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Some interesting facts about Phuket

Phuket is about the size of Singapore, and is one of the largest islands in Thailand. The range of activities available is astounding when compared to the size of the island. Visitors are able to get off the beaten path and explore the back roads and sea gypsy villages. Venture into the jungle or bask under the sun on a deserted beach. If you are feeling adventurous, rent a surfboard! If you're a nature lover be surprised by the flora and fauna on display and relax in one of many enchanting parks.

Phuket has something to satisfy every appetite. Just don't forget your swimsuit. You're never too far from the sea and the beach is easily accessible from any point on the island.

• Look past the tourism and natural beauty in Phuket and experience one of the most colorful and interesting cultures in the world. Thai culture has been largely influenced by the countries' dominant religion. Most of Thailand's population is Buddhist, and evidence of this can be seen everywhere, from orange robed monks walking about the streets to the plethora of Buddha statues. Tourists can behold the uniqueness of this captivating eastern religion effortlessly; Buddhism is incorporated into everyday life in Phuket. The largest and most important temple on the island is Wat Cholong. Locals and Thai tourists come daily to pray and pay respect to the founders.

• Phuket is warm year round due to its tropical monsoon climate. The climate is dictated by the monsoon winds.

  From April to October, the land of Asia is warmer than the ocean. The cold air over the Indian Ocean pushes into the warm air over the land which causes the winds to bring lots of warm moist air and heaps of rain to Phuket. The six months of the rainy season are Phuket's low-season. Hotel rates are cut in half and you can generally get lower prices anywhere. It can rain for long periods and there will often be days without rain.

  The Asian continent cools from November to April; the ocean becomes warmer than the land. The wind changes directions from the northeast, bringing cooler air and pleasing weather back to Phuket. This is also Phuket's peak season, tourist season. During peak time hotel prices are at their absolute highest. Take into the issue of crowds when planning a vacation during peak moths.

  Do your research, weigh the pros and cons. You'll not be disappointed. There is something to enjoy in any season.

• • Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary
  Like the rest of Thailand, Phuket is full of natural wonders. 20km out of Phuket Town lays the Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary. Rumor has it, this 5,570 acres is the only virgin rainforest left on Phuket. Established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1969, this rich land is home to numerous types of wildlife.
   
  The display of wildlife playing around the forest canopy is astonishing. Protected by the sanctuary, the Malay Sun Bear can safely live under the lush White Back Palm. On the east side of the park, there is an elephant trekking camp. Also there is Bang Pae Waterfall. The waterfall is surrounded by undergrowth and offers a peace of mind to that entire.
   
• • Sirinat National Park
  Sirinat National Park was opened in 1981 and named in celebration of her majesty, Queen Sirikit, for her 60th birthday. The park consists of several beaches with white sand and palms, including Nai Yang beach, Mai Khao beach and Sai Kaew beach.
   
  Mai Khao and Nai Yang beaches are the longest in Phuket and camping is allowed on both beaches. Be sure to register with park Officials. The Park's Visitor Center offers tents to rent and proves facilities for campers. Inexpensive bungalows are an option to rent on Nai Yang.
   
  The coral reefs marine environment is quite diverse, including soft, plate, and tree colors. Sea fans and sea anemones are found in the pristine water, just 800 from the shoreline. Hat Mai Khao is famous for sea turtles egg-laying. Since the majority of Phuket has devolved, this is one of the only places to see the natural wonder. The best time to see the turtles is November to February.
   
• • Sunset at Laem Promthep
  There is an expression that says if you haven't been to Laem Promthep, you haven't been to Phuket. Watching the sunset in Laem Promthep is regarded as the top tourist destination in Phuket. The Andaman Sea sparkles at sunset and a calm breeze is about most nights.
   
  Situated on the side of the hill are many places for dinner with a bill that doesn't break the bank. In fact you can watch the sunset while you dine, most restaurants have views. Or dine under the hue of stars.
   
  Laem Promthep is quite busy around 6pm due to all the private cars and tour buses trying to find parking. If you're keen on seeing the sunset, its best viewed in December. Come early to enjoy the uniqueness of this sunset, it starts to set at 6pm.
   
• • Surfing in Phuket
  Phuket is no Waikiki but surfers around the world will say that Phuket is the best place to surf in Thailand. The West Coast is a mecca to local and international surfers. Anyone will have a brilliant time. Whether you're a professional or brand new to surfing, you can take in the stunning scenery and enjoy the warm water.
   
  The biggest waves happen from April to November which coincides with low season. The monsoon season brings excellent conditions for surfing and the benefit of cheaper prices and a quieter island. It's possible to surf during the rest of the year but the swells are less consistent.
   
  The best surfing locations on the west coast are Kata, Karon, and Surin Beach. There's a dedicated army of surf experts along the beaches to rent out boards or give lessons. Newbies to the sport will be thankful for a safe environment to learn the basic techniques.
   
• • Diving in Phuket
  Phuket is the crown jewel of diving in Thailand. The island offers a great range of scuba diving sites along the West coast and many opt to take longer trips throughout the Andaman Sea such as the Phi Phi Islands or Similans.
   
  Scuba diving in Phuket is available year round but the best conditions are in the peak season, November to April. The low season weather is less predictable and features more rain and choppier seas.
   
  Regardless of when or where you go around Phuket, you're eyes will be amazed with the wonderful world below. The varieties of marine life provide great opportunities for divers at all levels. No one is ever disappointed with so many species, colors and patterns.

• Patang Beach is a mecca for partygoers. The beach became popular in the 1980's and the vibe hasn't slowed since. Patong is an ideal place to play and party and is made up of a few small beaches which are long and wide. The water is shallow and good for easy wading or light swimming. Patong is not the place if you want an unspoiled beach; it's for those who like a devolved beach with a bright nightlife.

  Right off the beach is Bangla Road and for only being 400 meters in length, it famous nightlife is larger. There are literally hundreds of options for a great night out. Restaurants, Go-Go bars, beer bars, Bangla Road has it all. The bright neon lights and atmosphere can be a bit overwhelming but there is something for everyone.

  Bangla Road is busy during the day. Most shops open early in the day such as massage parlors, tailor shops. Bars open early in the afternoon to get the party started because as soon as the sun sets that's when Patong Beach becomes a party zone. Bangla goes all out to entertain and is breathtaking to walk around and see the bars compete for customers.

  It's a place where you can enjoy music, play billiards, enjoy a drink, eat and mingle with locals and tourists. As crazy as it gets, don't miss one of the main attractions in Phuket. And if one tires, take a short walk away and retreat to the beach!

• Phuket Weekend Marketp
  Just opposite Wat Nakha is the weekend market. Even if you're not planning on buying anything, it's worth a visit. Once the sun isn't so strong, the market opens up and it is best to get there early to avoid crowds. Be prepared to rub shoulders and haggle over goods. The market has everything from secondhand clothes, accessories, home decoration, electronic goods (avoid the pirated ones) and handcraft items.
   
• Central Festivalp
  The Pearl of the Andaman has a new world class destination, Central Festival Phuket, over 20,000 square meters is the most complex shopping and entertainment center in Thailand. Customers can find world class products; stores form Guess Kids to Marks & Spencer. Products are substantially lower than in Western countries and are guaranteed real. No knock off's here.
   
• Phuket Indy Marketp
  Phuket Indy Market opened in 2010 and is quite popular with youth. In Thai, the market is called "Lad Ploy Kong" which means a market to let go of your things. Teenagers gather together, dress in their best attire and go out to mingle while shopping. It's a mix of handcrafts and second hand items, with a few hawker stalls and live performances mixed in, it's perfect for a lighthearted afternoon. Open every Thursday and Friday from 4:00pm to 8:00pm, across Dibuk Road on Limelight Ave.

Truthfully, there isn't a bad time to visit Phuket. However, one of the main reasons tourists visit the island of Phuket is to relax on one of its breathtaking beaches. If sunny beach weather is important to your visit, choose the best time of year to visit.